All posts by rastrear-estafeta.com

It’s not about talent, or natural ability. Becoming a professional footballer is all about how hard you work and the choices that you make during your career. It’s also about who you know! If there are people in your life with connections – like coaches, scouts, agents- then use them to get ahead of the competition. Because it takes more than just skill to become a professional football player these days; it takes drive and determination too!

What qualifications do you need to be a professional footballer?

To play professionally, the most important qualification is that you’re good enough. All players who want to earn money from football can’t be considered for playing in any league or team without meeting all the requirements set out by the individual teams. That means an ability to read and write English well, as well as being able to speak comfortably on behalf of yourself and your teammates. 

The rules vary among countries but they usually involve having no criminal record either in England or abroad, no history of drug or casino abuse (such as no deposit free spins) and medical certificates confirming that there are no conditions preventing you from working.

What are the chances of becoming a professional football player?

Your chances of becoming a professional footballer depend on many different factors. Where you live, the team that you play for, and if you have any sort of connection to a coach or scout all have an effect on your chances. At the end of the day, it is up to you to put in the hard work and dedication necessary to become a professional footballer.

Top tips for becoming a professional footballer Be willing to relocate for the right opportunity: Moving to a new town or country can be difficult, but it is sometimes necessary to give yourself the best possible chance of success. Get as much experience as you can: The more matches and training sessions you play in then the better your chance of being noticed by scouts and coaches. Play well with others: Competition for places is tough at professional clubs so if you want to get noticed than demonstrating your ability and willingness to work hard for your teammates is important too. Learn English: With so many foreign players in the Premier League, it’s crucial that young players understand English so they can speak confidently with their coaches and teammates. Have a back-up plan: All footballers get injured sometimes; if you’re lucky, it will be a minor injury and you’ll only miss a few games. But what about times when injuries can end your career? If that happens then having a solid education could save you from financial hardship in the future. Take up an active hobby: Given how much time football players spend on the field practicing, clubs prefer to sign those who have healthy interests such as horse riding or outdoor sports to help them recover from injury and maintain good mental health. Be coachable: When young players reach professional level, they often find themselves working under managers and coaches with decades of experience playing the game at the highest level. Sometimes younger players don’t feel confident in challenging a coach or manager’s decisions during a match. However, if you demonstrate faith in your colleagues and authority figures then they’ll be more likely to take you seriously on the pitch too. Develop good personal habits: Eating well, getting enough sleep each night and keeping healthy are all important factors in ensuring that players stay motivated and achieve their best performance levels on the football pitch. If you’re not taking care of yourself properly then it will be harder for coaches to trust you with a place in the team. Watch matches closely: Sometimes when watching a football match it can be easy to get caught up in what is happening elsewhere on the field rather than concentrating on your own role within the game. Keeping an eye on what other players are doing lets you learn from their good and bad play. Don’t give up: If you truly want to become a professional footballer then make sure that nothing gets in the way of achieving your dreams. Bad luck, injuries and lack of opportunities can all put talented players off going for their dream, but if that’s what you really want then persistence is key! Moving to a new town or country can be difficult, but it is sometimes necessary to give yourself the best possible chance of success.

The more matches and training sessions you play in then the better your chance of being noticed by scouts and coaches.

Having faith in your colleagues and authority figures then they’ll be more likely to take you seriously on the pitch too.

If you truly want to become a professional footballer then make sure that nothing gets in the way of achieving your dreams.

Conclusion

It’s not impossible to become a professional football player, but it is difficult. You need to be willing and able to relocate in order for your skillset to reach its full potential. It will also take time, effort, and dedication on your part.

Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly offered midfielder Moussa Sissoko in part exchange in an attempt to sign Juventus ace Weston McKennie [Tuttosport via Sportlens].

The Lowdown: Spurs continue squad re-structure as window nears an end

As 2021/22 starts to take shape, recently appointed Spurs manager Nuno Espirito Santo will be keen to continue re-structuring his squad as he eyes a push towards Champions League qualification this campaign.

Thus far, the Portuguese coach has managed to complete three additions in the form of Pierluigi Gollini, Cristian Romero and Bryan Gil [Transfermarkt].

Now, could it be a case of one in and one out at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium following recent developments.

The Latest: Spurs offer Sissoko in attempt to sign McKennie; Ndombele was initially offered

Tottenham were originally said to have offered former Lyon anchor man Tanguy Ndombele as a carrot in their pursuit to sign USA international McKennie this window [Sportslens].

However, his Italian employers refused the proposal, leading Spurs to present 32-year-old Sissoko as an alternative swap-plus-cash in order to acquire McKennie.

The Frenchman is one of the biggest earners at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on around £79,000-p/w [Salary Sport], but isn’t considered to hold precedence within their plans this season.

The Verdict: McKennie would be an inspired addition for Spurs this summer

Needing fresh blood in the middle of the park, McKennie would be an inspired signing by the Tottenham Hotspur hierarchy due to his tenacious nature and abundance of energy.

In 2020/21, the American showed his quality in attack, registering nine goal contributions in 46 appearances; six goals and three assists [Transfermarkt].

Furthermore, his ability and composure within the midfield came to the surface last term, with McKennie managing to record a passing accuracy of 85.4% in Serie A across the piece [WhoScored].

Once labelled as ‘outstanding’ by former Schalke executive manager Christian Heidel, Spurs should look to close a deal before the window concludes [Schalke 04 Official].

In other news, Tottenham Hotspur eye a La Liga star. Find out who here

Leeds United have no new injury problems ahead of their trip to Manchester City on Tuesday night, according to reliable journalist Phil Hay.

The Lowdown: Leeds preparing for City clash

The Whites were beaten 3-2 away to Chelsea on Saturday, conceding a late penalty to lose in heartbreaking fashion at Stamford Bridge.

It doesn’t get any easier for Marcelo Bielsa’s side, with reigning Premier League champions City welcoming them to the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday.

Leeds also have numerous injury problems to contend with at the moment, but a fitness update from the manager at least indicated that the situation hasn’t worsened.

[freshpress-quiz id=“375277″]

The Latest: Hay gives injury update

Taking to Twitter on Monday afternoon, Hay confirmed that Bielsa doesn’t have any new injuries in his squad, but nor is he expecting anyone who is sidelined to return for the Manchester City clash.

The journalist tweeted: “From Bielsa’s pre-City presser: no fresh injuries ahead of tomorrow but none of the players who were absent at Chelsea are ready to return. That would mean Bamford, Phillips, Cooper, Struijk, Koch still unavailable.”

[web_stories_embed url=”https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/latest-leeds-united-news-27/” title=”Latest Leeds United news!” poster=”” width=”360″ height=”600″ align=”none”]

The Verdict: Huge task ahead

This is arguably going to be Leeds’ toughest game of the season so far, as they look to take down a City side who have won their last six league matches in a row and currently sit top of the table.

It is difficult enough beating them when everyone is fit – the Whites famously triumphed at the Etihad last season – but seeing off Pep Guardiola’s star-studded team without the likes of Patrick Bamford, Kalvin Phillips and Liam Cooper is even harder.

Anything other than a defeat would feel like a huge bonus for Leeds, although they have at least shown that they can cause the big teams problems since their return to the top flight, as highlighted by their valiant efforts at Chelsea on Saturday.

In other news, David Ornstein has provided an important update on one Leeds player. Find out who it is here.

As per Football Insider, an update has emerged on Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Tanguy Ndombele’s future at the club and what manager Antonio Conte intends in January.

The Lowdown: Future up in the air…

The club record signing, brought in from Lyon two years ago (BBC), has been at the centre of reports linking him with a move away since the summer window.

[web_stories_embed url=”https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/spurs-latest-updates-5/” title=”Spurs latest updates!” poster=”” width=”360″ height=”600″ align=”none”]

Ndombele allegedly informed Tottenham chiefs of his desire to leave north London before August, but after a move failed to materialise, the 24-year-old has been in and out the team.

Conte’s arrival gifted the Frenchman yet another new start after the sackings of Mauricio Pochettino, Jose Mourinho and Nuno Espirito Santo but Spurs’ latest manager has already called out his work ethic.

Now, in an update on his future, FI have shared some news on Conte’s sale stance.

The Latest: Conte wants him gone…

As per their information, the Italian ‘wants Ndombele out if a deal can be done’ with Spurs now aware of interest from Italian giants Juventus, the former club of transfer chief Fabio Paratici.

Football Insider also reiterate that Conte has already told Spurs chiefs to offload the midfielder in January, and while a permanent sale isn’t ruled out, an obligation-to-buy loan or standard temporary deal are more realistic options.

The Verdict: Time to go?

We believe cutting ties with Ndombele could be the only way forward at this point, even despite his obvious ability, with the former Ligue 1 sensation finishing 2020/2021 as Tottenham’s best dribbler on average with 2.2 completed take-ons per 90 in the Premier League (WhoScored).

He’s also been described as ‘unplayable’ by former Spurs keeper Joe Hart during his time in north London (Rio Ferdinand to BT via Spurs Web), but Ndombele’s quality is marred by a consistent lack of application.

Chairman Daniel Levy famously sat down with the £200,000-per-week ace to discuss his future during Amazon’s fly-on-the-wall documentary ‘All or Nothing’, and that was in his first season at Hotspur Way.

Having played under three new managers since Pochettino first brought him to Spurs, now may be time to consider parting ways.

In other news: Spurs in pole position to sign ‘perfect’ player for Conte as price tags drops by nearly half, find out more here.

Fulham midfielder Fabio Carvalho has emerged as a transfer target for Leeds United this summer, according to the Daily Mail.

The lowdown

Carvalho made six appearances for the Cottagers in the second half of the 2020/21 season, scoring against Southampton back in May.

The midfielder certainly didn’t look out of place in senior football, having made the move to Fulham from Balham in 2014, having previously been on the books with Benfica. He started their match against Middlesbrough at the weekend, registering two shots and completing four dribbles for Marco Silva’s team (WhoScored).

Former Fulham boss Scott Parker has previously sung the 18-year-old’s praises. Speaking after his goal against the Saints three months ago, the now-Bournemouth manager said of Carvalho: “Massive positive for us because he’s the one who’s going to be here, he’s a player that is really bright and can bring something to this team.”

The latest

It appears as though Carvalho’s impressive showings haven’t gone unnoticed, with Leeds United registering their interest in signing the midfielder.

However, they aren’t the only club believed to be keen on signing the 18-year-old, with the Daily Mail claiming that Norwich City, West Ham United and FC Porto are also interested in signing Carvalho.

The report added that Fulham face a ‘battle’ on their hands to keep him at Craven Cottage in the future, with his contract situation reaching an impasse after he turned down the club’s offer of a new deal, having entered the final year of his current contract.

The verdict

Carvalho has shown real promise for the Cottagers in the early stages of his senior career. As evidenced by his dribbling figures from Sunday, he’s showing no fear when playing in their first team, which is refreshing to see from a young talent.

Leeds could potentially be the ideal move for him as well, as Marcelo Bielsa has already shown that there is a clear pathway through to their first team for young prospects, with the likes of Pascal Struijk and Illan Meslier (both 21) featuring regularly under the Argentine in the Premier League last term.

Carvalho could be the next player to follow in their footsteps, but Leeds will face a battle on their hands to land his signature on a permanent basis, with a number of other clubs reportedly keen on signing him. Given the competition for the youngster, it would seem quite a coup if the Whites can come up trumps in this frenetic transfer race.

In other news, David Norris has made a plea to Marcelo Bielsa regarding these two Leeds players

Liverpool have entered the race to sign striker Alexander Isak from Real Sociedad, according to the print edition of Spanish newspaper AS (via Sport Witness).

The lowdown

The 21-year-old frontman scored 17 La Liga goals in 30 starts for Sociedad last season. His finest run of form came shortly after the turn of the year, when he netted nine goals in six matches, including a hat-trick against Alaves.

Isak is currently on Euro 2020 duty with Sweden, who have reached the round of 16. He has earned plaudits for his performances at the tournament, with Gary Lineker describing him as an ‘exceptional talent’.

Borussia Dortmund had a €30m (£25.8m) buyback option but, according to Marca, Sociedad reached an agreement with the Bundesliga outfit to remove that clause.

The latest

The report from AS claimed that the Premier League is ‘going crazy’ for Isak, with Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea all in the frame for his signature.

It seems that the Reds have yet to formalise their interest, though, and Sociedad are expected to demand that a €70m (£60.2m) release clause be paid in full.

Having secured Europa League football for the second consecutive season, the San Sebastian club are not thought to be under pressure to sell.

The verdict

Isak has been a joy to watch at the Euros, showcasing a delicate touch as he manoeuvres his way through challenges at will. It’s no surprise that he’s attracting interest, and Liverpool need a number nine to succeed Robert Firmino.

However, it’s very difficult to see them shelling out more than £60m on the Swedish prospect when another exciting talent in the form of PSV’s Donyell Malen may be available for less than half that price.

In other news, read James Pearce’s update on the latest Reds rumour. 

Many Everton fans have been left buzzing over some comments made by Rafa Benitez ahead of their game away at Aston Villa in the Premier League.

When asked about his unbeaten start to the season in his pre-game press conference ahead of the match on Saturday evening, the former Liverpool and Newcastle United manager said: “I will not say perfect, because we drew against Leeds.”

Benitez clearly still has a winning mentality which he has demonstrated on a number of occasions over the course of his managerial career, winning many accolades in his time.

Given that Leeds United finished just above them in the top-flight table last term, it also shows that he wants his team to improve bit by bit, which has been appreciated immensely by the Goodison Park faithful as they look to take all three points away from Villa Park.

Everton fans on Benitez comments

These supporters of the Merseyside club buzzed as the comments made by Benitez were shared by the Toffees on their official Twitter page:

“We are moving forward well done Everton with star players @aftgomes @22Demarai @andros_townsend”

Credit: @Jesudian15

“I love his mentality”

Credit: @liam_b27

“Great attitude, make the players want to earn their place. James best follow suit.”

Credit: @bowes_joe

“So pleased for Rafa. Long may it last!!”

Credit: @collo77

“I still think about this game. 3 points was there for the taking but we move though”

Credit: @mannie_efc

“Say what you want about him but he’s got a winning mentality something these players have lacked and got away with doing in the past”

Credit: @steefcGT4

In other news, find out why there is tension between Marcel Brands and Blues chiefs here!

Speaking exclusively to Football FanCast, former Premier League striker Dean Windass has his doubts about Ollie Watkins playing out wide for Aston Villa.

Watkins was Villa’s first-choice No.9 last season and impressed in that position, scoring 14 goals in 37 league outings.

However, that could now change following Danny Ings’ arrival, with the 29-year-old currently leading the line for Villa.

He has already scored twice while Watkins remained on the sidelines due to injury.

It leaves Dean Smith with a decision to make once Watkins returns to full fitness, with the Villa manager perhaps needing to move the England international out wide in order to accommodate his new signing.

Windass, though, is unsure about such a move. He told FFC:

“I’m not too sure that Ollie Watkins would like to play wide left, but obviously I’m not telling Dean how to manage. He knows the best formation.”

Smith stated last month that he did not bring Watkins to Villa Park to play out wide. However, given his experience there and the form of Ings, maybe it is something he has to consider later down the line.

It is a dilemma, but it is certainly a good one to have.

West Ham United have received a major boost, with David Moyes expected to sign a contract extension before the end of the week…

What’s the word?

According to The Telegraph, the Scotsman was on the brink of signing a new three-year extension at the London Stadium, which would end any prospects of him returning to former club Everton.

He is likely to put pen to paper on Friday just under three weeks after sealing a place in the Europa League for the Irons with their best top-flight finish since the 1998/99 campaign.

The 58-year-old had been linked with a sensational return to Goodison Park following the departure of Carlo Ancelotti to Real Madrid but instead he has agreed to extend his contract, which was due to expire in 12 months’ time.

Huge boost

After those worrying links to his old club emerged during the past week, this fresh development will surely come as exciting news to everyone in east London as the Hammers can now look ahead to what will be a historic season.

Moyes has completely transformed West Ham in his second spell at the club. Last year, he guided them to Premier League safety with just one game to spare and he has now steered them to a top-six finish.

[snack-amp-story url= “https://www.footballfancast.com/web-stories/read-the-latest-west-ham-news-transfer-rumours-the-latest-gossip-and-much-more” title= “Read the latest West Ham news, transfer rumours, gossip and more!”]

His recruitment in the transfer market has arguably been second to none, trusting relatively unknown signings from abroad like Tomas Soucek and Vladimir Coufal, who have both become instant favourites, whilst no one could have predicted the form of Jesse Lingard, who ended the season on nine goals and four assists having only joined on loan in January.

In response to the report about Moyes’ future, plenty of the Irons faithful have made their feelings known on social media, with the overriding consensus being sheer elation. – albeit from a small sample size, there won’t be many against this move.

“Great stuff”, claimed one supporter, whilst another previously lauded it as “class news”. A further member of the London Stadium fanbase also described it as a “huge relief to 99% of West Ham fans”.

All that’s left is the official announcement from Rush Green but, until then, it seems that everyone associated with the club can now start to get excited ahead of next season.

AND in other news, Moyes must axe “really special” Pellegrini flop, he’s cost West Ham £3.95m per goal…

Wolves are reportedly interested in a move for Stade de Reims forward Hugo Ekitke, according to The Telegraph. 

The lowdown: Rising stock

The 19-year-old spent the second half of the 2020/21 season on loan at Danish side Vejle BK, scoring three times and registering two assists in 11 outings before returning to France.

Since then, the speedy frontman has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign in Ligue 1 and has been linked with a move to a host of Premier League clubs, including the likes of Liverpool and Manchester United.

[web_stories_embed url=”https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/all-the-latest-from-wolves-4/” title=”All the latest from Wolves!” poster=”” width=”360″ height=”600″ align=”none”]

Newcastle United were believed to be close to landing Ekitike in January but the move failed to materialise and now the Wanderers could be about to throw their name into the mix ahead of the summer window…

The latest: The Telegraph makes claim

As per the report from journalist for The Telegraph, John Percy, Wolves are the latest club to ‘show interest’ in the teenage sensation.

It’s claimed that officials from Molineux have been ‘scouting’ the France Under 20 international whose running style has been likened to that of compatriot and Paris Saint-Germain superstar Kylian Mbappe.

The report states that Wolves will face ‘serious competition’ for the two-cap youth international in the summer as Bruno Lage attempts to bolster the attacking options at his disposal in the Midlands.

The verdict: An exciting prospect

Described as ‘very special’ by manager Oscar Garcia, Ekitike has scored ten and provided another four assists in 24 appearances across all competitions this season playing as both a centre-forward and a left-winger, with transfer insider Graeme Bailey even reporting that many in France believe he is the ‘next Mbappe’ and would be a ‘huge signing’ in the Premier League.

Per FBref, the young Frenchman is actually a close match to Wolves star Raul Jimenez stylistically and it’s no surprise that Lage would look towards the ace to arrive as an understudy.

Standing at 6 foot 2, Ekitike possesses the necessary physical attributes to handle the rigours of the Premier League, something that until now Fabio Silva has struggled to cope with, and can therefore be considered as a realistic target to add to the ranks this summer.

In other news, Wolves are reportedly eyeing up a move for an exciting player. Find out who it is here.